Behavioral Modification with Aspergers Kids: Does it Work?

A recent post on My Aspergers Child.com discusses how behavioral modification with positive reinforcements can help change a child's unwanted or unhealthy behaviors.  Kids with Aspergers, as with any kids, will respond to behavioral modification techniques when done consistently and correctly. Positive versus negative reinforcement is always the way to go with kids and this article has a lot of terrific pointers on how to subtly reinforce good behaviors for children with Asperger's behaviors.
Much of what they talk about is similar to what we have discussed before in all of our techniques in dealing with behaviors that are inappropriate, but the article clearly states how a parent can use approaches and see progress with their children... very motivational for those of us who might be struggling right now.  Check it out....

Changing Unwanted Aspergers-related Behavior

“It is very frustrating not being able to change or modify the rigid behaviors that my Asperger’s son exhibits, for example, picky eating, rudeness to others, lack of motivation …just to name a few. Is there anything that can be done to help him be more open to change and flexibility?”

Most kids with Aspergers and High-Functioning Autism struggle with social skills, communication, and a limited diet, which can cause any of these issues:

• behavioral problems
• communication problems
• desire for isolation
• lack of incentive
• sensory issues 
• social problems
• dropping into a state of depression, thus making the original problems that much worse

Social skills and living skills therapy may be the most popular areas of concentration when treating kids and teens (and even adults) with Aspergers and High-Functioning Autism. These therapies are widely available and do bring about effective progress in most cases.

Providing incentive is the key to improving your youngster’s circumstances. Actually, incentive is a factor anytime you are seeking to modify anyone’s unwanted behaviors. Incentive in itself is definitely an old concept, but using incentive in a new way will create the wanted result for your “special needs” son.


Read more here: http://www.myaspergerschild.com/2009/06/aspergers-behavior.html